Hello everyone,

The japanese water stone that I use to sharpen my planes has no information relating to grit. I have sharpened an old razor the best I can, it will slice a piece of paper, but will not cut the hair on my arm. Not really wanting to purchase a Norton 4K/8K, I bought a 2 sided barbers hone from a seller from the classifieds thinking that I might be able to bring it to a more acceptable level of sharpness.

I recieved that hone and am very happy with it's condition but have some questions. From what I can gather, the BH is used to bring back a previously properly honed razor that has become dull to a shave ready condition. From previously read info I gather that 4-5 strokes are all that is required. After 5 strokes my razor is still not able to pass the arm shave test. Do I just continue to stroke? Is it possible to overhone with a BH.

This is an old razor that I am practicing on while my other is being properly sharpened. When I get that one back I will be able to see and feel what "really sharp" really means. In the mean time, trying to learn on my own. I bought Lynn's DVD and that is great but no mention of the barbers hone.

Thanks for any input .